Why would hardened American generals weep at the execution of an enemy spy? This deep dive tells the story of Major John Andre, the charming, multilingual British officer and artist who became head of British intelligence in North America and the tragic face of Benedict Arnold’s betrayal at West Point.

We follow how Andre’s social talents built intelligence networks, how Peggy Shippen helped connect him with Arnold, and how a plot to surrender West Point for 20,000 pounds unraveled when American privates fired on HMS Vulture and left Andre stranded. Captured in civilian clothes with plans hidden in his stockings, he was tried by a board of generals and hanged after Washington refused his plea for a firing squad.

• Andre’s life as a paroled prisoner and his role in Philadelphia high society, including the Mischianza
• Why West Point’s position on the Hudson made Arnold’s offer potentially war-ending
• How removing his uniform turned Andre from a soldier into a spy under the laws of war
• The stolen Hessian coat that led Andre to reveal himself to three American militiamen
• Washington’s failed offer to trade Andre for Arnold and the very different legacies of both men